Iran and Pakistan reach draft deal pending Washington approval
Shafaq News- Tehran/ Washington
A proposed memorandum of understanding was reached between Iran and the United States aimed at ending the war, but it remains dependent on Washington’s approval, Al-Jazeera reported on Saturday.
Citing an Iranian official, the outlet said the proposed framework includes ending the war, lifting the blockade on Iran, reopening the Strait of Hormuz –through which roughly 20% of global oil and gas shipments pass– and the withdrawal of US forces from the “war zone.”
However, the memorandum deliberately excludes Iran’s nuclear program because the issue remains “complex” and requires broader negotiations, though nuclear talks could begin 30 days after the agreement takes effect.
Pakistan’s army chief had been expected to announce the framework in Tehran before departing for consultations with US officials, according to the official.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later confirmed that “some progress” had been achieved in negotiations with Iran, adding that Washington could have “something to say later today, tomorrow, or within two days.”
“I hope to hear good news.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi still signaled continued distrust toward Washington despite diplomatic progress, warning that Tehran would not offer concessions beyond the terms already outlined in the proposed framework. His remarks followed threats by US President Donald Trump to launch additional strikes if Iran rejected a negotiated settlement.
Read more: Trump’s balancing act with Iran tests diplomacy and deterrence
In a separate message to Lebanese Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, Araghchi said Tehran had insisted “from the first moment” on linking any ceasefire in Iran to Lebanon.
